Definition

A
cystoscopy
is a procedure to examine the bladder with a lighted scope. The scope allows the doctor to look through the urethra and into the bladder. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is used to numb the area in and around the urethra. A sedative may also be given to help you relax.

Description of the Procedure

You will lie on an exam table. A cystoscope will be inserted through the urinary opening, into the urethra, and into the bladder. Your bladder will be drained of urine. A sample will be kept for testing. Next, your bladder will be filled with sterile water or saline solution. This will allow a better view of the bladder walls. The bladder and urethra will be examined.

How Long Will It Take?

Up to 15 minutes

How Much Will It Hurt?

Local anesthesia will keep you free from pain. You may feel some discomfort or the urge to urinate when the bladder is filled during the exam.

Post-procedure Care

After the procedure, you may experience a burning sensation or see small amounts of blood when you urinate.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

Frequency, urgency, burning, or pain when urinating

You are unable to urinate or empty your bladder completely

Blood in your urine after 24 hours

Signs of infection; including fever and chills

Pain in your abdomen, back, or side

In case of an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

All EBSCO Publishing proprietary, consumer health and medical information found on this site is accredited by URAC. URAC's Health Web Site Accreditation Program requires compliance with 53 rigorous standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audits. To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at
HLEditorialTeam@ebscohost.com.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.